How To Make Your College Application Process Easier
Isabella Cruz
Florida State University
Going off to college has been a dream for Isabella. We know that many people aspire to go off to college as well, so here are a few tips you can learn from Isabella’s experience. At the start of her high school career, Isabella began to tour schools all over Florida.
– Touring Schools
Although it’s not always in the budget for many, and usually seen to be done during Junior year, start touring your dream universities as early as you possibly can. This way, the financial aspect won’t be so much of a worry. Getting to know a campus is extremely important as it can make or break your decision on whether you should attend the next four years of your life there. The atmosphere of a campus is just as important as what the university offers. By visiting, you can see whether you belong there and really see what the student life is at each university.
It shortly became evident to her that Florida State University was her top choice. “I instantly fell in love with the campus and everything FSU represented” Isabella told us. Headstrong about her future aspirations, she has become involved in extracurriculars ranging from National Dance Honors Society, to Future Business Leaders of America all the while maintaining exceptional grades. She has also earned a spot on the Firebird Rubies Dance Team. “Doral Academy has given me all of the necessary tools needed to succeed.” Her hard work and dedication have been met with an admission to the University. We are proud of Isabella and all of her grand accomplishments.
Go Noles!
Gabriel Gonzalez
The University of Chicago
Gabriel joined the Firebird family in eighth grade, only a year after coming from Chile and being challenged with a language barrier. His interest in computer science and mathematics has allowed him to continually practice and share his love with other likeminded students. Gabriel has learned how to balance school work and extracurriculars like TED talks, math club, and weekly math and science competitions. His diligence, persistence and industrious efforts have allowed him to get accepted into prestigious schools like The University of Chicago and Northeastern University. Gabriel claims that the light at the end of the tunnel is not always in sight, but keeping a positive mindset has allowed him to excel throughout his high school career.
“Getting into computer science and math has helped me meet people who were dreaming and accomplishing big things, which empowered me to do it as well.”
– Surround Yourself With Good People and What You Love Doing
High School is a place where the more classes you take, the better you look. Being well-rounded is a great characteristic to have, but prioritize your passions as it’ll help you reach the goals you’ve always wanted. School allows you to explore different realms of knowledge, to inevitably give you a direction on where you’re meant to be. As Gabriel said, he ran with his interests and now has a great head on his shoulders going into college. Take every opportunity high school gives you to pursue something that genuinely peaks your interest; do not just for the clout. This will aid you when deciding what colleges are best for you as you’ll have some idea on what direction, regarding careers, you should take. As universities have specialties or specific schools for different subjects, having this relative idea will be a great starting point for your new chapter: Adulthood and University Life. Another great tip you all should know is that the people you surround yourself with could majorly influence your outlook on many aspects of your school life. Keep yourself around people who will help you grow into the best version of you that you can be at that very moment in time.
All four years of high school are important. They all can positively affect your future if you allow yourself to make the most out of what is handed to you.